The Northern Central & York County Heritage Trails

The Northern Central Railroad (NCR) and York County Heritage (YCH) combine
to create a simply an awesome trail. Despite its proximity to Baltimore,
this 41 mile long trail follows nearly all rural terrain (with much of
it along side Gunpowder Falls River). The surface is fine crushed gravel
and is in generally good condition. The trail is also well shaded, so it
is nice even on the hottest summer days.

Overview of NCR/YCH Trails

The NCR trail begins in the small community of Ashland, Maryland. It continues
north for 20 miles to the Mason-Dixon Line. Here, it enters Pennsylvania
and becomes the YCH. The trail then continues another 21 miles north
to York, PA. (This includes the newly opened 10 mile section between York
and Hanover Junction.)

The trail is easily accessible from I-83. The southern trail head begins
at a small neighborhood called Ashland, which is just off York Road in
Cockeysville, Md. Parking here is typically tight, so most people park
along Paper Mill Road, about a half mile north of the start. Parking is
also available at several other points along the trail.

The southern 10 miles is quite flat. Once you approach Parkton,
the trail begins a pretty good climb up to New Freedom, the highest point
on the trail. (However, this 2-3% grade is nothing compared to the surrounding
hilly terrain). From New Freedom, the trail begins a continuous decent to
the northern terminus.

The NCR is quite rural, so make sure you bring along enough
food and drink. In Maryland, the only real food stop is at a small general
store in Monkton (around mile 8). The trail's visitor center is also located
here. There are picnic tables located every mile or so.

In Pennsylvania, the YCH provides amenities every few miles. There
is also an operational parallel railway adjacent to the trail, which is
used as a hobbyist / tourist attraction between York and New Freedom.